Helpful Facts
Facts
| Name |
Syrian Arab Republic |
| Area |
185.180 square km |
| Population |
19 million |
| People |
Arabs, Palestinians, Armenians, Kurds |
| Official language |
Arabic |
| Religion |
Islam, Christianity |
| Time |
GMT +2 |
Visa
Foreigners need a valid passport for six months with entry visa. Individuals and groups of all nationalities (with some exceptions) are issued one-month entry visa upon arrival at any port in Syria upon presentation of passport. You can obtain in advance an entry visa from Syrian diplomatic missions abroad. We recommend to contact the embassy or consulate in your country, also visa issues may have changed.
Note: No Israeli stamp or any crossing point with Israel stamp should be on your passport this includes Araba border, Sheikh Hussein border, Rafah and Taba border.
Climate
Near the coast you find Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The average daily temperature in summer is 29 °C and in winter 10 °C. In Damascus, Aleppo and in and in Syria's inland the climate is drier and hotter with mild and cold winters.
Health
There are no serious health risks in Syria, but travelers may suffer from stomach discomfort or diarrhea. Like in many countries it is advisable to drink bottled water and check that the cap is securely sealed. Avoid ice in your drinks and uncooked food. We recommend vaccinations against Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A (Malaria only for certain areas). We advise to check the current health information before you travel.
Currency
Currency unit: Syrian Pound = 100 piasters
Notes: 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 pounds.
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 S.P.
Business Hours
Government Offices: Saturday to Thursday 8:00am to 2:00pm
Banks: Saturday to Thursday 8:30am to 2:00pm
During the holy month of Ramadan working hours are usually reduced.
Customs
In a Muslim country it is advisable for women to cover their arms and legs. Before entering a mosque women should not forget to cover their hair and men have to wear long trousers.
